Joseph Phelps Insignia 2019 – Napa Valley Proprietary Red Wine (750ml)

Joseph Phelps Insignia 2019 is the flagship proprietary red blend from Joseph Phelps Vineyards, a wine that has defined the "Bordeaux blend" style in Napa Valley since its inaugural 1974 vintage. It is not designated by a single varietal but rather as a blend, predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, with varying proportions of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec, depending on the vintage and the characteristics of the grapes from their estate vineyards across Napa Valley. These vineyards are meticulously farmed, with sustainable practices often employed. The winemaking process for Insignia is highly rigorous: grapes are hand-harvested and undergo extensive sorting. Individual vineyard blocks and even sub-blocks are fermented separately in a combination of stainless steel and concrete tanks, allowing for precise control over each component. Extended maceration is common to extract optimal color, flavor, and tannins. Following fermentation, the wine is transferred to new French oak barrels, where it undergoes malolactic fermentation and then ages for an extended period, typically around 24 months. The specific blending of the different varietals occurs after about a year of aging, a crucial step guided by the winemaking team to create the final harmonious and complex wine. The wine is bottled without fining or filtration to preserve its rich texture and depth, ensuring a wine built for significant aging and profound expression of the Napa Valley terroir.

Wine Advocate (Lisa Perrotti-Brown): 97-99 Points (barrel sample range)

James Suckling: 99 Points

Jeb Dunnuck: 98+ Points

Vinous (Antonio Galloni): 98 Points

Flavor Profile: Deep layers of black cherry, cassis, and dark chocolate, with well-integrated tannins and a long, elegant finish.

Pairs Well With: Grilled or roasted red meats (beef, lamb), game meats, hard cheeses, mushroom-based dishes.

Rooted in California’s sun-soaked vineyards, Phelps crafts wines that marry modern winemaking techniques with a nod to tradition. Their expressions are approachable yet layered, offering a bright fruit character with a polished, lingering finish.